Its location was deliberate, grounded in history and symbolism. Situated near where the Marriott story began, and just steps from the nation’s most treasured monuments and memorials, the hotel was built as a tribute to strong leadership, vision, and heritage. Today, it remains with quiet dignity, only two blocks from the sitting President of the United States, honoring both its origins and its place at the heart of the capital.
JW Marriott Washington, DC
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The Original JW Marriott
A Tribute That Became a Global Legacy
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How it All Began
In the early 1980s, on the same street where J. Willard Marriott and his wife Alice opened their first 8-stool root beer stand in 1927, and soon after launched their first Hot Shoppes restaurant, a new chapter was quietly beginning. In June 1984, JW Marriott Washington, DC opened its doors. From the start, it represented more than just a hotel; it embodied family warmth, deep gratitude, and the enduring principles that shaped the Marriott legacy.
A Legacy at the Heart of the Capitol
"Everything we have accomplished began with a simple idea: take care of people." - J. Willard Marriott
The Gift
Bill Marriott dedicated his life to learning from his father, a man renowned for his humility, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to service above all else. When it was time to honor him, Bill knew it had to be something exceptional. He envisioned a hotel unlike any other: a living tribute to J.W.’s ideals and a reflection of the values that shaped the company. (HIT “NEXT” BELOW TO CONTINUE OUR STORY)
The Gift
For months, the project was a closely kept secret. When the hotel was finally finished, Bill invited his father for a private tour. The real surprise was outside, where his father’s name shone across the front in large letters: JW MARRIOTT. It meant much more than just a name; it was a lasting symbol of gratitude, a son’s genuine way of expressing thanks for a lifetime of guidance in leadership, humility, and caring for others. (HIT “NEXT” BELOW TO CONTINUE OUR STORY)
The Gift
Looking back, Bill reflected, “I wanted him to know how much he meant to me, to our family, and to everyone whose lives he touched. This hotel was my tribute to him.”
"Success is never final. It is the result of hard work, humility, and service." - J. Willard Marriott
From One to Many
This hotel was never meant to create a brand. It was built as a unique tribute, one sincere act of gratitude. Still, its success was clear. Guests experienced something truly different here: a feeling of belonging, warmth, and genuine care. (HIT “NEXT” BELOW TO CONTINUE OUR STORY)
From One to Many
The Founders Group, committed associates who have been with the property since its opening, passed down their unique JW style of care to each new generation, ensuring the spirit endured. Their dedication and passion for service established this hotel as a benchmark for world-class luxury experiences, rooted in authenticity and purpose. (HIT “NEXT” BELOW TO CONTINUE OUR STORY)
From One to Many
From the success of “The Original JW,” a global brand was born. Today, JW Marriott hotels worldwide serve as escapes where every detail is carefully planned, allowing guests to focus on themselves, mind, body, and spirit, a core philosophy that remains at the center of every JW Marriott experience. (HIT “NEXT” BELOW TO CONTINUE OUR STORY)
From One to Many
Alice Marriott’s love of nature and the outdoors has shaped the character of the brand. Her sense of balance and beauty inspires environments that promote mindfulness, support sustainability, and serve as sanctuaries where guests can relax, refresh their spirits, and share meaningful experiences.
“Hospitality is about more than buildings. It is about people and the moments that matter.” – Alice Marriott
A Heritage that Lives On
In 2024, the JW Marriott Washington DC celebrated its 40th anniversary with members of The Founders Group and associates who have upheld its traditions for decades. From one tribute to a global legacy featuring more than 130 hotels in 37 countries and territories, the brand remains true to its origins.
A Heritage that Lives On
In 2024, the JW Marriott Washington DC celebrated its 40th anniversary with members of The Founders Group and associates who have upheld its traditions for decades. From one tribute to a global legacy featuring more than 130 hotels in 37 countries and territories, the brand remains true to its origins.
A Heritage that Lives On
In 2024, the JW Marriott Washington DC celebrated its 40th anniversary with members of The Founders Group and associates who have upheld its traditions for decades. From one tribute to a global legacy featuring more than 130 hotels in 37 countries and territories, the brand remains true to its origins.
A Heritage that Lives On
In 2024, the JW Marriott Washington DC celebrated its 40th anniversary with members of The Founders Group and associates who have upheld its traditions for decades. From one tribute to a global legacy featuring more than 130 hotels in 37 countries and territories, the brand remains true to its origins.
“Our name carries a responsibility to uphold the values that started it all.” - Bill Marriott
JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts: Milestones and Market Firsts
- 1927: J. Willard and Alice Marriott open their first root beer stand on 14th Street NW, Washington, DC
- 1984: The original JW Marriott Washington, DC opens as a tribute from son to father
- 1989: First JW Marriott resort opens in Scottsdale, Arizona
- 1993: First international JW Marriott opens in Hong Kong
- 1995: First JW Marriott in Europe opens in London
- 1997: First JW Marriott in Asia opens in Bangkok, Thailand
- 2000: First JW Marriott in South America opens in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- 2002: First JW Marriott in the Middle East opens in Dubai, UAE
- 2003: JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa opens, marking Caribbean expansion
- 2006: JW Marriott Beijing opens, strengthening presence in China
- 2008: JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai at Tomorrow Square opens
- 2010: JW Marriott Mumbai opens, debuting in India
- 2012: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai opens, becoming one of the world’s tallest hotels
- 2013: JW Marriott Hanoi opens, expanding into Vietnam
- 2015: JW Marriott Venice Resort and Spa opens, redefining luxury in Europe
- 2016: JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort and Spa opens in Mexico
- 2017: JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach opens
- 2018: JW Marriott Nashville opens, marking growth in US gateway cities
- 2019: JW Marriott reaches 100 hotels worldwide
- 2024: JW Marriott Washington, DC celebrates its 40th anniversary
- 2027 to 2028: JW Marriott brand celebrates its 100th anniversary, honoring a century of guest experiences inspired by J. Willard Marriott’s principles
- Future pipeline growth in gateway cities and resort destinations across Asia, Africa, and the Americas
When you stay at the JW Marriott Washington, D.C., you’re not just choosing a hotel. You’re experiencing the original—a sanctuary born from love, gratitude, and a vision of personalized care that has touched the world.
